The state of Bihar, in a decisive move to bolster national security, is set to exclude individuals and entities that have connections to those acting against the nation’s interests from participating in government procurement processes. This crucial decision was recently sanctioned by the Bihar cabinet, introducing an amendment to Rule 30 (XII) of the Bihar Finance Manual 1950, aligning it with the General Financial Rules 2017, as established by the Union Ministry of Finance.
The Additional Chief Secretary (Cabinet Secretariat), S Siddhartha, affirmed that this measure was taken with a primary focus on safeguarding national security. He emphasized that this decision holds a comprehensive perspective and is not singularly aimed at any specific nation, including China. Furthermore, Siddhartha made it clear that no state government procurement activities shall circumvent this latest directive.
In another significant development, the state government has resolved to enhance the remuneration and benefits provided to government professionals serving in higher positions than their current designations. This decision stems from an ongoing case related to government promotions, currently under the scrutiny of the Supreme Court.
Siddharth elucidated that these professionals will be granted regular promotions should the Supreme Court deem it fitting. Conversely, if the court’s ruling takes a different trajectory, a rollback mechanism will be enforced. Importantly, any additional remuneration previously received by professionals, whose promotions do not ultimately obtain regularization, will not be reclaimed by the state government in the event of a rollback.
The cabinet also approved funds exceeding Rs 37 crore for the development of specialized infrastructure in Naxal-affected areas, allocated to the Special Branch of the State Home Department. This initiative aligns with a centrally sponsored scheme, with funding allocation following a 60:40 ratio.
During its meeting, the cabinet greenlit various agenda points, among which the creation of 149 positions for the Eye Institute of the Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences was notably approved.
This move underscores Bihar’s dedication to enhancing national security and ensuring the integrity of government procurement channels, while also addressing issues related to professional advancement in the state’s government sector.
